30 km south-east of Guadeloupe, Marie-Galante Island, nicknamed the Grande Galette, invites you to a timeless getaway in the heart of Guadeloupean tradition. Between its dreamy beaches, its rich sugar heritage and its peaceful atmosphere, Marie-Galante reveals its charms to the delight of visitors.
The Island of a Hundred Mills: A Sugar Heritage Steeped in History
Affectionately known as the island of a hundred mills, Marie-Galante tells its story through these emblematic structures. As early as the 17th century, sugar cane dominated the landscape, leading to the construction of mills to extract the precious juice. Today, 70 towers remain, witnesses of a bygone era. Two of them, carefully renovated, are open to visitors, offering a journey back in time to the heart of the sugar industry of yesteryear.
The Paradise Beaches: Jewels of Sand and Emerald
The beaches of Marie-Galante, true postcards, captivate with their unspoilt beauty. Lined with coconut palms watching over turquoise blue waters, these stretches of fine sand each reveal their unique character.
Paradise Beach
– Plage des Galets (or Taliseronde) in Capesterre : Enjoy the rising sun on this beach protected by a lagoon, offering magnificent walks under the generous shade of the grape trees. Its fine sand and crystal-clear waters make it a place of absolute serenity.
– Feuillère Beach : Considered one of the most beautiful, it offers a quiet area with a small cove lined with picturesque restaurants. The corals are home to colorful marine life, inviting exploration.
– Grand Bourg Beach : This beach stretches along the houses and is lined with coconut palms, offering a picturesque view. It’s the perfect place for a romantic sunset stroll.
– Saint-Louis Beach : To the west, this is the perfect place to admire the sunsets over Les Saintes. Its calm waters invite you to swim, and its breathtaking view makes it a living canvas.
– Anse de Mays beaches, Anse Canot and Vieux Fort beach : Quiet and stretching as far as the eye can see, these northern beaches are havens of tranquility. Their wild landscapes make them ideal destinations for lovers of unspoilt nature.
La Gueule du Grand Gouffre (The Maw of the Great Chasm): A Natural Masterpiece in the North
On the north coast, the Gueule du Grand Gouffre amazes visitors. Accessible by a hiking trail, this rocky arch offers an impressive spectacle where the waves rush with a crash. There, the rock faces reveal a unique panorama. A must-see place for lovers of hiking and breathtaking seascapes.
Looking up at this spectacular rock formation, visitors are amazed by the power of nature and the raw beauty of this unique site.
Festival Terre de Blues: The Musical Festival that Animates Marie-Galante
Every year in June, Marie-Galante comes alive with the Terre de Blues international festival. Attracting more than 15,000 festival-goers, this event highlights the cultural richness of the island through exhibitions showcasing local artisans and performances by renowned artists. A unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the warm atmosphere of Marie-Galante, lulled by music and local traditions.
Marie-Galante, with its sugar heritage, idyllic beaches, and authentic atmosphere, reveals itself as a pearl of the Caribbean to be explored without haste, where every corner tells a unique story. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a beach lover, or simply someone in search of tranquility, Marie-Galante offers something special for every visitor.